Voice of the people (letter).

Save The Market

July 29, 1993|By Kevin Lawrence Dixler.

Chicago possesses a unique treasure. The Maxwell Street Market has not only served entrepreneurs, but much of the community for 120 years. For a mere $25 annual license a vendor can set up and attempt to be the master of his own destiny. Unfortunately, its uncertain future threatens the hope and aspirations of both immigrant and native residents.

Every Sunday the Maxwell Street Market area thrives with upwards of a thousand vendors and nearly 30,000 multicultural customers. It continues in spite of the University of Illinois' attempt to fence off land that it purchased within the market area. The city elected not to interfere, even though Chicago Ordinance Chapter 4-352 establishes this area to serve as the city's market.

Fortunately, there still remains a configuration of common dwellings and buildings on Maxwell Street. These structures if renovated could serve as a reminder of its cultural history and house a museum. However, the structures are being rapidly bought up, condemned and destroyed.

This area has great potential to attract visitors. I believe that the City of Chicago has an unpolished gem. I hope City Council can do what numerous cities throughout this nation have done with their markets: Preserve and redevelop it. Don't let the market become another lost opportunity.